TOWNSEND (WATE) – Whiskey lovers from around East Tennessee and beyond are invited to a special celebration in Blount County. Grains and Grits, a celebration of Southern spirits and gourmet food will bring more than two dozen distilleries to the Townsend Visitors’ Center on Saturday, November 5.

The festival includes a who’s who of Tennessee whiskey legends including Jack Daniels Master Distiller Jeff Arnett and other national names like George Dickel. Other craft distillers from around the state include Old Forge, Popcorn Sutton, Thunder Road and Chattanooga Whiskey.

The event is hosted and arranged by the Tennessee Distillers Guild and and the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority.

There will also be plenty of options for non-whiskey drinkers including food and items from area breweries and wineries. World-renowned resort Blackberry Farm will serve both food and beer and there will be live music.